Tonight’s lone NHL matchup brings us a divisional battle between the Columbus Blue Jackets and Pittsburgh Penguins, but where the real action is in the NHL prop bets for tonight’s game.
21+ Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-Gambler
Columbus has already won the first 2 meetings this season, but Pittsburgh comes in as the slight favorite at home, looking to avoid a season sweep. Both teams are desperate for points in the playoff race which only adds to the opportunity for some player prop bets.
With Columbus struggling to score during their recent losing streak and Pittsburgh’s goaltending remaining somewhat inconsistent, this game is undoubtedly going to deliver several betting opportunities.
Player Prop Odds: -105
Malkin has been one of the most reliable producers for Pittsburgh against Columbus — especially when they’re playing at home.
He has recorded at least 1 point in 14 of his last 15 home games against the Blue Jackets, making this prop one of the hardest to pass up. Even though the Penguins have lost both meetings this season, Malkin has remained a steady force in the zone, and Pittsburgh’s offense will need him to step up to avoid another loss.
So far this season, Malkin has 13 goals and 31 assists all within the span of 60 games. On top of that, he has been involved in the offense more often lately, registering 4 points in his last 5 games.
With Columbus giving up 3.3 goals per game, and their goaltending has been shaky at best, we think this is a prime chance for Malkin to get on the scoresheet.
The Penguins are definitely pushing for a win, so Malkin should get plenty of chances to contribute. At just shy of even money, this is a strong value bet.
Player Prop Odds: +110
Werenski has been the driving force behind Columbus’ offense all season. In fact, he’s leading the team with 69 points which includes 49 assists.
While the Blue Jackets have struggled recently, Werenski still remains their most reliable playmaker. Having picked up 3 helpers in his last 5 games, he’s clearly surging and doing his part. If Columbus can get back on track offensively, it’s likely Werenski will be involved in the action.
Against Pittsburgh, Werenski has already proven effective. He notched 2 assists in the first 2 matchups this season. The Penguins’ goaltending has been a weak spot all year, with both Tristan Jarry and Alex Nedeljkovic allowing 3+ goals per game and holding save percentages well below .900.
If Columbus finds any amount of offensive success, Werenski will without a doubt be a key facilitator, which makes this plus-money assist prop a strong bet.
Player Prop Odds: +165
Rakell has quietly been Pittsburgh’s most dangerous goal-scorer this season as he leads the team with 31 goals in 69 games.
He has been even more productive at home, where he has scored 20 of those 31 goals. With the Penguins in need of an offensive spark tonight, Rakell is a prime candidate to find the back of the net and light the lamp.
Columbus’ defense and goaltending have been a major issue, particularly on the road. The Blue Jackets allow a whopping 3.3 goals per game, and they’ve given up at 4+ goals in 4 of their last 5 games. To take that a step further, Rakell has also been on a hot streak, scoring 3 goals in his last 5 games, making this an ideal spot to bet on him adding to his season total.
At +165 odds, this is easily one of the best NHL prop bets on the board for tonight.
Player Prop Odds: -120
Marchenko has been one of Columbus’ most consistent goal-scorers this season, but his recent play has been a major concern for the Jackets.
He is currently on a 4-game scoreless streak, and during that stretch, the entire Blue Jackets offense has been ice cold, scoring just 4 total goals in 5 games.
When a team is struggling to generate quality scoring chances, it’s tough to trust their top goal-scorer to break out of a slump. This is especially true against a desperate opponent like Pittsburgh.
Marchenko has also had limited success against the Penguins this season, registering just 1 point in their 2 matchups. If Pittsburgh can control the pace of play and limit Columbus’ offensive chances, Marchenko could easily go another game without a point.
Given his recent form and Columbus’ overall struggles, the under on his points prop is a smart play even if the odds aren’t the best of the group.
With both teams fighting to stay in the playoff race, this game should have plenty of intensity. That makes it a great opportunity to target key player props that align with recent trends and team performances.
Evgeni Malkin to record a point at -105 stands out as one of the strongest plays of the night, given his history against Columbus and the Penguins’ need for some serious offensive production. Zach Werenski’s assist prop at +110 is another solid pick, as he has been Columbus’ top playmaker all season and has already notched 2 helpers in their prior meetings. For those looking for one of the best plus-money options, Rickard Rakell anytime goal scorer at +165 is a bet that’s loaded with value. He leads Pittsburgh in goals, has been red-hot at home, and will be heavily involved in the Penguins’ attack. On the other side, taking the under on Kirill Marchenko’s points at -120 makes sense given his 4-game scoreless streak and Columbus’ offensive struggles.
You still have time to add these props to your bet slip for tonight’s game so head over to your favorite sportsbook and cash in!
21+ to wager. Please Gamble Responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-877-770-7867(CO), 1-800-522-4700 (KS, NV), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-877-770-STOP (7867) (LA), Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA), Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), 1-800-270-7117 for confidential help (MI). Call or text 877-718-5543 or visit morethanagame.nc.gov (NC). Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), 1-888-532-3500 (VA).